While with the Steelers, Foote had a lot of success. He was a starting linebacker for the team during their Super Bowl championship runs in 2005 and last season. In seven seasons, Foote played 110 out of 112 possible games. His best season came in 2005 when he had 102 tackles.

Larry Foote, Detroit Lions (Image: Newscom)

Despite his production over the years, the Steelers decided to cut the 27-year-old out of Michigan. He had Lawrence Timmons breathing down his neck for a starting spot and the team felt his salary was best used elsewhere. With Foote gone, Timmons is now expected to start.

With the Lions, Foote will undoubtedly see a lot of action on the field. Detroit was 0-16 last season and one of their biggest weaknesses was their linebacking corps. If Foote can have a big season, he might be able to cash in next offseason.

Post from: EveryJoe

Larry Foote to Sign with the Detroit Lions

Image: Flickr

Not only was Garcia born near by Oakland, he also had his best years of his career while with the San Francisco 49ers. According to reports, Garcia joined the Raiders in part to be close to his Bay Area roots.

Garcia spent 1999-2003 with the 49ers. His two best seasons came in 2000 and 2001. In 2000, he had 31 touchdowns and 4278 passing yards, while he threw for 32 touchdowns and 3,538 passing yards in 2001.

Since leaving San Francisco, Garcia has played for the Cleveland Browns, Detroit Lions, Philadelphia Eagles and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. For his career, he has thrown 161 touchdowns and 83 interceptions, while accumulating 25,537 passing yards with a 61.6% completion percentage.

With the Raiders, he has a chance of seeing action. Russell is still a prospect with potential but he has struggled in his early career. If he struggles again in 2009, the Raiders may turn to Garcia in hopes that he can lead the team to victories.

Post from: EveryJoe

Jeff Garcia Signs with the Oakland Raiders

Last season, Smith was slowed by injury for much of the season. In 13 games, Smith finished with 37 receptions for 298 yards and three touchdowns. The best seasons of his career came in 2005 and 2006 when he combined for 111 catches, 1293 yards and eight touchdowns.

With the Ravens, Smith will likely play alongside tight end Todd Heap in a lot of the team’s formations. However, with both players being injury prone, this move gives Baltimore added insurance at the tight end position.

Despite making the playoffs last season, the Ravens were 28th in the NFL in passing yards. Only two players on the entire team (Derrick Mason and Mark Clayton) recorded more than 35 receptions.

The contract is reportedly a one-year deal worth $1.5 million.

LJ Smith - Image: Newscom

Post from: EveryJoe

LJ Smith Signs with Ravens